Assistive and Inclusive Home Technology for People with Visual Impairment

People with sight loss need to be provided with better advice and information about assistive and inclusive technology so they can access it to assist in daily living, research by Jay Stow has found. The research, commissioned by Thomas Pocklington Trust, found there are many exciting technological solutions on the market and leading technology developers are promoting inclusive design but people with sight loss need to be better informed about what is available, how to compare products and where to get them.

Key facts: Assistive and inclusive technology (AIT)

Specialist assistive technology, based on purpose-designed products, help people with visual impairment to keep their independence, develop new skills and broaden their
experiences.

There have been many radical, high-tech innovations in recent years, often associated with the advance of mobile integrated technology devices.

The research found there is an overall positive outlook for the future of AIT with market leaders in the technology industry paying serious attention to inclusive design.

There is a gap between the availability of useful and accessible AIT and the practical use of the technology by people with sight loss.

People with sight loss need to be continually updated and given reliable information about what AIT exists where to find it and how to compare different products and technologies.

How can this research help?

The study highlights the need for people with sight loss to receive better advice and information to help them access AIT. It also found that people with sight loss could help shape technological innovation to assist daily living.

Links:

Research Findings: Assistive and Inclusive Home Technology for People with Visual Impairment – PDF version and Word version

Full Report: Assistive and Inclusive Home Technology for People with Visual Impairment – PDF version and Word Version

Assistive and inclusive home technology for people with visual impairment (October 2015)

Thomas Pocklington Trust commissioned research consultant Jay Stow to carry out a review of assistive and inclusive technology (AIT) within the home environment.